(IPYS/IFEX) – On 21 October 2005, Teodoro Petkoff, editor of the daily “TalCual”, was insulted by protesters while he was getting ready to present his book on the leftist movements in Venezuela, titled “Dos Izquierdas” (“Two Lefts”). The incident occurred in Maturín, capital of the eastern state of Monagas. Approximately thirty people, presumably supporters of […]
(IPYS/IFEX) – On 21 October 2005, Teodoro Petkoff, editor of the daily “TalCual”, was insulted by protesters while he was getting ready to present his book on the leftist movements in Venezuela, titled “Dos Izquierdas” (“Two Lefts”).
The incident occurred in Maturín, capital of the eastern state of Monagas. Approximately thirty people, presumably supporters of President Hugo Chávez, suddenly entered the auditorium where the ceremony was taking place and began to insult the journalist, shouting “golpistas” (“supporters of the coup”). The protesters carried flags and banners which suggested that Petkoff had been involved in the failed coup of 11 April 2002, which ousted Chávez’s government from power for 48 hours.
Monagas State Governor José Gregorio Briceño ordered protection for the journalist for as long as he remained on the premises. Petkoff, who is well known for his openly critical stance against the government, was able to carry on with the presentation.
